Megalo Tigani (port)

This remote little island in Lakonia, very close to mainland (ferries come and go, tickets are cheap and three to takes minutes on crystalline waters) is fast becoming famous for its stupendous Simos Beach. There are of course other very nice beaches but Simos easily ranks among the best in the world. Elafonisos is still pretty backwards compared to the likes of the Cyclades but that's part of its laid back charm. The pressure of tourism is pushing up prices (and service level, but at a distance) so, if you can, come and visit soon. It is still pleasant to come here in high season. You can reach Elafonisos by car from Athens or Kalamata airports, the latter bring much closer but less served. The trip across Peloponnesus is worth in itself. Bring along plenty of cash since this is how people pay here and there is just one cash dispenser in the island, which often runs out of money.

Great place! Lovely sandy beaches- a real wow effect

best mom and pop shop on the island, food is always fresh and you’re always greeted with a smile

Beautiful small island! Amazing, like exotic beaches with crystal clear water ! Good accommodation options and very good Greek food!

Crystal clear turquoise waters ?? warms waters with low depth sea and golden beach ? camping on the end of Simos beach. Great food and drinks in the town center (Chora). Great pies, souvlaki-gyros pita to grab and go, while they have some of the most authentic Italian coffee brands to treat yourself with an iced coffee to go ?? Ferryboat from Pouda that takes you a 10min sail to the island. Board your car and pay Elafonisos a visit while touring around Peloponnese region!??

This is a dream place. Last time I visited, 16 years ago, it was a "Greek only" little island, with barely any tourist from abroad and mainly seafood greek cousine with a menu based on the catch of the day brought to land by local fishermen. Night life was scarce and during the day, you could have enjoyed the wilderness of a desert sandy beach. Now it is a very touristic island (at least on August when I've been there), most of the visitors coming from Italy, and that is reflected on the transformation of the menu choices, where pasta and pizza are in every restaurant. The night promenade has become way busier and now there's a cash machine, arcade, hair and beauty saloon, a little disco pub and a mini market selling every sort of good opened until late... Elafonissos has changed, yes, but with the large extension of amazing beaches on top of the enchanting clear blue waters and the near to wild vibe all around that, this island at 10 minutes from the mainland, is still able to deliver the perfect experience for sea lovers. Although you won't find a desert beach anymore, you still won't feel cramped, neither while sunbathing nor while relaxing in the water. Strong suggestion: a snorkeling mask and a waterproof camera:all sorts of colourful fish can be spotted even on shallow water. If you're after a relaxing holiday I would definitely recommend it.

Pictursque, cosy small marina, with enough traditional Greek taverns, cafe bars and good accomodation options. It has clear and crystal waters with beautiful colors sandy beaches, not far away. Popular enough during the peak of the summer season.

The area gives you a preview of what you will find while going to the island. The crystal clear blue waters. On the other end there are tavernas to have some food and recharge.